Definition

In a manner that causes sharp pain or discomfort, often used to describe a strong emotional reaction or criticism.

Example

She spoke stingingly about the mistakes made in the project.

Conversation

Did you hear what she said about the project?

Yeah, it was pretty harsh and stingingly critical.

I know, right? It felt a bit unnecessary.

Totally! Constructive feedback is one thing, but that was just mean.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Stingingly → It is formed from "sting" (from Old English "stingan", meaning to pierce or prick) and the suffix "-ingly" (indicating a manner of doing something). The word "stingingly" means in a manner that causes a sharp, piercing sensation or feeling.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'sting' which means to 'pierce' or 'prick' — when something happens 'stingingly', it does so in a sharp, piercing way.

Visually Confused Words